The Foundations of Horse Training

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Horse training can be enjoyable, but it can also be difficult. Starting young horses is typically best left to more experienced trainers for the beginner. Children are far too unpredictable, and success necessitates knowledge, timing, and competence. But, in reality, we train our horses—even highly trained ones—every time we engage with them.

When you teach your horse a new trick, it implies you've learned something new as well, which is immensely fulfilling. Discover what your horse should know and what you will need to know to train your horse. Here are some fun, easy, and safe horse training ideas for new horse owners.

What You Should Know Before You Begin

There are a few things you need to know before you start horse training to be effective and safe with your horse. You should learn how to approach training, what works and what doesn't, and how to tell if what you're doing is effective.

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While a round pen is not required to educate a horse, it is beneficial to practice in an enclosed place such as a round pen, ring, arena, or small paddock.

What Your Horse Should Know

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Even if you don't ride or drive it, every horse must have certain etiquette. One thing every horse should know is how to load properly onto a trailer in case of an emergency.

Things You Can Teach a Horse That Is Safe

Teaching your horse neck rein is simple and enjoyable. It's useful to have a horse that can direct rein and neck rein, whether you ride English or Western. It's also enjoyable to teach your horse new things, and non-horse people like seeing horses do them. Hugs and kisses are two basic tricks.

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Note: If your horse is mouthy and nips, teaching a horse to kiss the handler on the cheek may not be safe; instead, find a solution that keeps the kisses away from the handler's face.

Problems with Training and Behavior

A variety of factors might contribute to behavioral issues. For example, putting a tie down or martingale on a horse to alleviate a problem like head tossing is pointless if its mouth hurts because its teeth are too long and sharp.

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When dealing with any problem, it is critical to first understand why the problem occurs in the first place. Each of these issues is solvable with fair and consistent treatment. Patience is essential. Remember that you can collaborate with your training coach to ensure your safety.

What Your Horse Shouldn't Learn

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If your horse is misbehaving and you are a novice rider, seek help from an experienced rider or a trainer. Certain actions, including rearing, bucking, and balking, can be harmful if you don't know how to handle them. Some activities are simply not for beginners, at least not alone.

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